One of Texas Tech's preferred walk-ons is Braden Marusak, a son of former Red Raiders defensive back Dean Marusak who lettered from 1985-88. Braden Marusak was first-team all-District 3-4A for Amarillo in 2012 and second-team all-District 3-4A last year.

He’s listed at 6-3, 192 pounds and learning the Raider outside linebacker spot. He played safety for the Sandies.

“That kid will knock the heck out of you,” said co-defensive coordinator Mike Smith, Marusak’s position coach. “I love watching his Hudl (video), his highlights, because he is going around just hitting the heck out of everybody. Anything that’s moving, he just throws his whole body in there.

“He’s had some shoulder issues he’ll have to be careful with, but he’s a really violent kid and I love that he’s from West Texas.”

Marusak also was recruited by Wyoming.

As a junior, Marusak had four caused fumbles, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. He’s the second preferred walk-on linebacker prospect from the Golden Spread in two years.

Last year, the Red Raiders took Randall quarterback Collin Bowen and converted him to defense. Bowen's 6-3, 221 now and playing inside linebacker.